For espoused systems thinkers who are predisposed towards towards finding an equilibrium (or maybe one amongst multiple equilibria), a discussion about entropy can raise discomfort. In the systems sciences, the second law of thermodynamics -- as an entropic process -- is often cited by the learned as a universal law applicable across physics, chemistry, biology ... as well as social systems.
In economics, Nicholas Georgescu-Roegen drew attention to the inconvenience that "perpetual motion of the third kind is impossible". Thus, "a closed system that does work forever at a steady rate" violates the second law of thermodynamics. Towards unpacking the implications of this universal law, we drew on David L. Hawk for expertise.
Pre-readings for the session are at https://wiki.st-on.org/2022-03-14 .